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Bruce Pipman’s whimsical creations are metaphors for the nature of man. The New Kensington resident works in acrylic and ink.

Image: Penn State

August art gallery features Bruce Pipman

Affectional art reflects the emotions of desire, romance and love

July 30, 2013

August art gallery features Bruce Pipman

Local artist Bruce Pipman blends images with words for his exhibit in August at the Penn State New Kensington Art Gallery.

Working with acrylic and ink, Pipman’s affectional art reflects the emotions of desire, romance and love. His whimsical creations, such as fish, birds, and women, are metaphors for the nature of man. More than 50 pieces are on display.

“I believe that the truth in life lies beneath the surface and in my paintings I try to scratch at that surface,” said Pipman, who has been painting for 10 years. “I try to create a more focused experience for the viewer by writing on my paintings.”

A resident of New Kensington, Pipman previously exhibited at Art After Dark in Lawrenceville, a neighborhood of Pittsburgh. His work caught the eye of Bud Gibbons, professor of visual arts and art gallery director, who suggested a one-man show at the campus. Pipman follows Gibbons’ three-month exhibit that concluded in July.

“I am excited about having an opportunity to exhibit my painting in my hometown,” Pipman said. “Bud has been an inspiration to me as a local artist. I have been attending his art shows for years.”

Pipman holds a bachelor’s degree in sociology from Kent State University. He worked as a consultant and recruiter in the technology and engineering fields with various companies in the region before retiring and devoting his time to painting.

The artist has ties to Penn State. His wife, Millie, was an adjunct professor of English at the campus and their sons are Penn State graduates.

A reception to meet the artist is from 6 to 8 p.m. Friday, Aug. 9, in the gallery. The reception and exhibit are free to the public. The gallery is open 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. weekdays and noon to 5 p.m. weekends.